RAGLAN.

Waikato Argus, Volume XXXI, Issue 4853, 14 November 1911, Page 2

RAGLAN.

Instead of improving as the season advances the weather is assuredly growing worse. Very few Raglanites can recall to memory a rougher night than that of last Thursday, when rain, wind and electrical forces were in conspiracy to do their utmost. Usually as the rain increases the wind eases, but on this particular night the heavier became the rain the stronger blew the wind, until it had assumed almost hurricane force, and this continued right through the night, accompanied the whole time with vivid lightning and loud thunder. Trees were blown down in all directions, and telegraph posts struck with lightning here and there along the line. About a mile or so out of Raglan five posts were struck, some being splintered to matchwood, and the wire was laying on the ground strange to say neither fused nor broken. After such an effort on the part of the elements one might have expected finer weather, but it continues rough and boisterous up to the time of writing. In spite of the wind the heavy rainfall is causing an abundance of grass, and all that is wanted now is a little sunshine to give the feed quality. The volunteer ball, held on Friday last, was well attended by gentlemen, while the ladies, who usually predominate atjthese functions, were somewhat in tho minority owing to the exceeding inclemency of the weather. However, the affair proved very enjoyable and reflected great credit on the promoters. The hall was tastefully decorated with nikau and the supper room and table with greenery and flowers. Among those present at the dance were Colonel and Mrs Bell.

I Sheep shearers, sheep owners, and j lastly hut not least, the poor unfortunate sheep themselves are having u very unenviable time of it this year as regards shearing. The Raglan Town Board, at its last meeting, was asked to take over Hie hall from the Town Hall Company. Dr. Sanders, who presented the proposition, stated an annual in come of £4O was required to meet expenses, and that of this £25 might he reckoned upon without any effort. During the past two years a small section of the community hud been interesting themselves in the matter and by working up entertainments had raised something over £2O per annum, but it was thought that the whole of Hie community ought to share the burden hence the proposition. An eighth of a penny in the pound on the rateable value of the town would provide the necessary income. It was resolved that the matter should he referred to the ratepayers by circular. Own correspondent.